A New Chapter in Knitwear - Crane Brothers x Esk Valley

At Crane Brothers, we are always striving to blend timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design. This season, we're proud to announce a new chapter: our first collaboration with Esk Valley Knitwear, a renowned Scottish manufacturer based in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway.

Founded in 1968, Esk Valley boasts a rich heritage of producing premium knitwear for distinguished brands including Margaret Howell and Nigel Cabourn. Their reputation for quality and tradition makes them a natural partner in our pursuit of excellence.

This collaboration also holds personal meaning for me, as it connects deeply with my Douglas heritage. My family were early run holders in North Canterbury and were among the first to register a wool mark in New Zealand—a legacy built on resilience, innovation, and a close relationship with the land. Esk Valley’s commitment to traditional knitting techniques, handed down through generations, mirrors these values and strengthens our shared dedication to authenticity.

Together, we’ve created a knitwear range that celebrates this union of heritage and craft. Each garment is meticulously knit and hand-finished in Esk Valley’s own factory, using natural fibres like Shetland wool and merino. Designed with versatility in mind, these pieces strike the ideal balance of warmth and weight for a New Zealand winter—perfect for refined casual wear, whether at home or in the office.

Shetland wool, sourced from the resilient sheep of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, is prized for its softness, durability, and natural insulation. Lighter and airier than many other wools, it provides warmth without bulk, offering comfort across changing seasons. Its slightly rugged texture lends each garment a distinctive character—effortlessly complementing both tailored and relaxed looks. It’s a true menswear essential, defined by practicality and understated elegance.

The collection for Autumn/Winter 2025 and is now available in-store and online. We invite you to discover this exclusive collaboration: a knitwear story that brings together the best of Scottish tradition and New Zealand design.

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